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NASB | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one [Holy] Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [spiritually transformed--united together] whether Jews or Greeks (Gentiles), slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one [Holy] Spirit [since the same Holy Spirit fills each life]. [Rom 3:22; Gal 3:28] |
Subject: Baptized before serving in choir |
Bible Note: Jeff: In Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you: and lo I am with you always even to the end of the age." NASB Baptism is not optinal, it is a command of Jesus Christ, who Christians are to follow His example. The Church members should be an example of following Christ leadership. The choir should be made up of believers that are following Jesus Christ and His Commands. Therefore when a local body of believers say unless you have been born again and baptized, this requirement is totally Biblical. Scripture tells us to test what we hear and see, against what the WORD says. I believe that the Church, meaning the bride of Christ is growing, and reaching out as never before. I do not believe "the church in general today has been filled with corruption and false teaching in a way never before seen." I do see that and failing in the church or it's members are brought to the attention of an audience that is far greater than ever before. This is due to the vastly improved way we communicate with TV internet, and many other ways of instant reporting. Having served as Pastor in the Souther Baptist, Conserative Baptist, and the American Baptist Churches USA, I can say there is no perfect church or denomination. I can say I have seen souls being transformed by Jesus Christ, as never before. Yes, there are false teachers and those who preach out of selfish motives, but it was that way in New Testament times as well. I am sorry you feel the church is missing the mark today because of lazy and unterested believers. I personally feel it is up to each believer to be respondsible for their own personal growth in Christ. I can do my best to become a believer who studies the Word, and developes a living active love relationship with Jesus Christ. I can show and demonstrate how to become a follower of Christ, but that is up to each person to be accountable to the Holy Father. I believe I have presented the Scriptual support you asked for. If you find a church that is unscriptual in the preaching, teaching or the requirements they have set, then it is your responsibility to find a church which is Scriptual in all the areas you listed. I too am very concerned that the statements I make in this Study Bible Forum are Scriptual, respectful, kind, and open for anyone to question. I believe it is the respondsibility and part of growing as Christians to ask, just as you have done, when something seems to need further explimation. Thank you for asking and I hope his has cleared up any questions you had. I am very optomistic in the Power of the Holy Spirit to convict sinners of their need for Jesus Christ. The Church is growing every minuet. I have seen the lives of changed people after receieving Jesus Christ as Lord. The Bride of Christ awaits the Bride Groom, and until He comes, the command is to GO make disciples. Blessings to you Jeff. Justme |